I’ve now been to all three The Boathouse restaurants on Sydney’s northern beaches. All are set in beautiful waterside locations, but Palm Beach is my favourite. Why? It’s virtually on The Pittwater and feels more like a boathouse than the others. Half of the seating looks over the Pittwater, and the other half is under shady umbrellas and trees in its own secluded courtyard out the front. If the sweeping views across to West Head National Park aren’t enough, continue down the jetty that runs alongside the building, and immerse yourself further in the Pittwater experience. The menu is the same – I love the consistency. The scones are crispy and slightly toasted, and these are already cut in half. The spread errs on the generous side, and if you aren’t too hungry is enough to share. The jam and cream are good enough – the jam is average and the fresh cream is on the light side – but there’s room for improvement, and the handful of fresh strawberries are always a welcome treat. Try a yoga class in the space upstairs that offers million-dollar views to help find your Zen. Sunday dining incurs a 10 per cent surcharge.
Tea: A basic selection of quality loose-leaf teas served in a Japanese style cast iron teapot.
Price: $$$
Overall: The location over Pittwater actually feels like a boathouse.